A director of the Department of Residence candidate said her focus on communication makes her the best choice for the position.

Jane Grassadonia, director of residence education at Virginia Commonwealth University, spoke in the first of a series of open forums designed to learn more about the four finalists for the position Tuesday. The question-and-answer style forum gave Grassadonia a chance to communicate her plans for the future of the department, as well as the reasons she feels she is the best candidate for the position.

“My energy, investment in the student body and ability to build relationships and a strong sense of community are what make me the best choice for the position,” Grassadonia said.

She said open communication between departments at Iowa State, as well as keeping the student body updated and informed, are the keys to a smoothly running and successful Department of Residence.

She also stressed the importance of a strong sense of community — both among students living in on-campus housing and faculty members within the department. She said communication and community are the solutions to a variety of problems facing the Department of Residence, from diminishing student use of residence halls to vandalism and security.

Grassadonia said the potential for change and opportunities that the university has to offer are what attracted her to the position, in addition to its stability.

“I can’t say what the future holds or what my plans will be past two or three years from now,” she said.

“My daughter will be out of middle school soon, and after she gets into high school, I don’t want to move around.”

About 100 university and Ames community members gathered to ask Grassadonia questions.

Todd Holcomb, associate vice president for student affairs and interim director of the Department of Residence, said a variety of people should participate in the forums so the candidates are aware of all aspects of the position and the needs of the community.

Other finalists for the position include Ginny Arthur, associate director of residence life; Pete Englin, dean of students; and Jim Zentmeyer, associate director of residence life at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.

Anyone can attend public forums being held April 27 through April 29 for the other three candidates.

Englin’s forum is Wednesday in the Cardinal Room of the Memorial Union.

Zentmeyer’s forum is on Thursday in the Gallery of the Memorial Union and Arthur’s is on Friday in the Campanile Room of the Memorial Union. All forums will be held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

“These forums are an excellent opportunity for individuals to meet and ask the candidates questions,” Holcomb said.